Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Indian Warship Arrives in Russia, Ready to Participate in Naval Exercises in the Sea of Japan
The Indian Navy's frigate INS Sahyadri arrived in Vladivostok on October 10, 2023, to participate in the joint naval exercise 'Indra-2026' with the Russian Navy. The exercise is set to commence on October 13, 2023, and will involve both shore planning and at-sea drills. The Russian Navy will also send the frigate 'Hero of the Russian Federation Aldar Tsydenzhapov' to participate.
Russia’s Mach 2 Su-57 Felon Stealth Fighter Was Never Built to Fight and Beat the US Air Force F-22 Raptor or the F-35
The Su-57 Felon fighter jet, operational since 2020, has faced criticism for its capabilities compared to US fighters like the F-22 and F-35. Critics highlight its inferior stealth features and design flaws, yet the aircraft is intended to disrupt US air operations by targeting support systems rather than engaging directly in aerial combat. Russia's defense industry reportedly has a faster production rate than NATO, allowing for strategic advantages in warfare.
There Is No Such Thing as a ‘Black Hole’ Kilo-Class Submarine: A US Navy Anti-Submarine Operator Had ‘No Respect’ For the Russian Sub
Sean Spoonts, a former US Navy ASW operator, argues that the Russian Kilo-class submarine is not as stealthy as claimed, being detectable when snorkeling. He notes that three Kilo-class submarines have been damaged or destroyed while at the pier, highlighting their limited submerged endurance. Spoonts emphasizes that the Kilo-class is not a serious threat compared to other submarines like the Victor III.
Putin Meets with Iranian President: Willing to Help Iran Promote Conflict Resolution
Russian President Putin met with Iranian President Raisi in Turkmenbashi on October 8, 2023, to discuss bilateral relations and the Middle East situation. Putin expressed Russia's commitment to assist Iran in resolving regional conflicts. Raisi emphasized the importance of maintaining rights amid ongoing negotiations with the U.S. regarding a proposed 'seven-day plan.'
EU Sanctions 2026 Expand Pressure on the Russian Rocket Industry
The European Union has approved a sanctions package targeting 1646 individuals and organizations linked to the Russian missile industry in October 2026. These sanctions aim to disrupt the supply chain and increase costs associated with missile production. The measures are designed to impact not only manufacturers but also suppliers and intermediaries, thereby affecting Russia's military capabilities. Despite these sanctions, Russia is expected to maintain its missile strike capabilities while facing increased operational costs.
Dmitri VolkovThu Oct 08 2026Loading...
Decades Later, Army General Dwight D Eisenhower’s Line on Sergeants in the Army Is Still One of the Greatest Military Quotes in Armed Forces History
Dwight D. Eisenhower demonstrated exceptional leadership throughout his military career, overseeing significant operations such as D-Day and Operation Torch. He graduated from West Point in 1915 and later served as NATO's first Supreme Allied Commander Europe. His strategic abilities were honed through mentorship and experience in various military roles, shaping him into a key figure in Allied victory during World War II.
The Center-2026 Exercises Show a New Model of Russian Warfare from the Urals to Central Asia
Russian Armed Forces conducted military exercises named 'Center-2026' in the Ural region in October 2026, involving 47,000 personnel and showcasing advanced technologies such as drones and laser systems. The exercises included participation from Chinese forces, indicating a military collaboration. Central Asian nations viewed the maneuvers as a demonstration of Russia's regional military influence and commitment to defense cooperation.
Dmitri VolkovMon Oct 05 2026Loading...
The "Center-2026" Exercises Bring Russia and China Closer and Change Calculations in Central Asia
On October 3, 2026, Russia and China conducted joint military exercises named 'Tsentr-2026' involving 47,000 troops. The exercises focused on modern warfare tactics, including the use of Type 99A tanks and drones. The scenario included discussions on establishing a 'security zone' beyond Russian territory, which has implications for Central Asian nations. This collaboration highlights the evolving military relationship between Russia and China.
Dmitri VolkovSat Oct 03 2026Loading...Drones and Robots of Russia at Center-2026 Form the Chinese School of War 2026
Russia conducted strategic exercises Center-2026 in Chelyabinsk in October 2026, involving approximately 700 units of equipment, over 600 drones, and more than 60 ground robotic complexes. The Chinese military actively participated, gaining insights into the integration of drones and robotic systems in warfare. This collaboration marks a shift in military cooperation, with Russia focusing on sharing combat experience rather than traditional weaponry.
Dmitri VolkovSat Oct 03 2026Loading...Putin: Claiming Russia Faces "Strategic Failure" Will Increase the Risk of Escalation in Conflict
President Putin warned that declaring Russia's strategic failure would heighten the risk of escalation in the Ukraine conflict during a meeting in Moscow on October 1, 2023. He emphasized the necessity for a stable balance and mutual compromise among conflicting parties, criticizing Western nations for their role in fostering aggressive nationalism in Ukraine. Putin highlighted the dangers of military actions provoking responses, leading to a destructive spiral.
The Russian Army Receives 15,000 Personnel and 27 Percent of the Budget — The Cost of War in 2027
Russia plans to increase its military personnel by 15,000, reaching a total of 1.5 million by 2027, alongside a 27% rise in military budget. The autumn draft will call up approximately 120,000 conscripts. This expansion reflects ongoing military operations and the challenges of maintaining a capable force amid rising costs and personnel shortages.
Dmitri VolkovThu Oct 01 2026Loading...Putin Signs Order to Expand Russian Military Size
President Putin signed a decree on October 1, 2023, to expand the Russian military by 15,500 personnel, marking the fourth such order this year. Since March, the total increase in military personnel has reached 47,860. The decree does not provide specific reasons for the expansion, but it coincides with ongoing conflict and speculation about further mobilization efforts by Russia.
Oil Might Be Flowing Through the Strait of Hormuz, But for All the Wrong Reasons
Saudi Arabia increased oil flow through the Strait of Hormuz to 13.1 million barrels per day as of February 2026, despite challenges from Houthi control over key chokepoints. The Bab el-Mandeb saw a decline in oil exports to 2.53 million barrels per day. Saudi Arabia is redirecting tankers to the Indian Ocean to meet Chinese orders, indicating a shift in strategy amid ongoing regional tensions.
► ASELSAN strengthens partnership with Azerbaijan at ADEX 2026
ASELSAN signed agreements with Azerbaijan on September 30, 2026, to establish a strategic production facility in Nakhchivan and procure ALP 100 Multifunction AESA Air Surveillance Radar systems for the Azerbaijani Air Force. This collaboration aims to enhance Azerbaijan's defense manufacturing capabilities and support the integration of advanced technologies into its military platforms. ASELSAN also showcased a range of defense technologies at the Azerbaijan International Defence Exhibition (ADEX 2026).
The Russian Army Receives 15,500 New Positions Amid Prolonged War and North Korean Reinforcements
The Russian Armed Forces are expanding their personnel structure by 15,500 new positions amid ongoing military operations and support from North Korea. This expansion reflects a total increase of 47,860 positions since March 2026, indicating a shift towards a prolonged military mobilization. Reports suggest that North Korea is sending an additional 10,000 soldiers to assist Russia, which is facing significant personnel losses in the ongoing conflict.
Dmitri VolkovWed Sep 30 2026Loading...
Total Armed Forces of 2.44 million, Active Military Personnel Increased to 1.55 million, Russian Army Expands for the Fourth Time This Year
Russian President Putin signed a decree on September 28, 2023, increasing the total number of armed forces to 2,441,630 personnel, with active duty numbers rising to 1,550,500. This marks the fourth expansion of the military this year, reflecting Russia's response to perceived threats from NATO and European nations. The decree mandates budget allocations for the Ministry of Defense to support this expansion.
Putin's Decree on 1.55 Million Military Personnel Shows the Cost of a Prolonged War for Russia
On September 29, 2026, President Putin announced an increase in the Russian Armed Forces to 1.55 million personnel, marking the fourth adjustment in 2026. This decision coincides with plans to raise defense spending by about 27% in 2027. Reports also suggest North Korea may prepare to send 10,000 troops to assist Russia, highlighting the ongoing personnel challenges faced by the Russian military.
Dmitri VolkovTue Sep 29 2026Loading...
Russia plans record $200 billion military budget for 2027
Russia plans to spend 17.1 trillion rubles ($201 billion) on its military in 2027, a 27% increase from previous estimates. The total defense budget over the next three years is projected to reach 50 trillion rubles ($592 billion). The government aims to address budget deficits through borrowing and new taxes, with defense expected to account for 35% of federal spending in 2027.
The Russian Army is gaining 15,500 personnel — the fourth expansion of staff in 2026
On September 28, 2026, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree to increase the military personnel by 15,500, raising the total to 2,441,630. This marks the fourth expansion of military personnel in 2026, reflecting ongoing military needs amid a protracted conflict. The increase is part of a strategy to manage personnel shortages and maintain military readiness, while also indicating a shift in Russia's approach to the war.
Dmitri VolkovTue Sep 29 2026Loading...The total number of personnel in the Russian Armed Forces increases to over 2.44 million.
Russian President Putin signed a decree on September 28, 2023, increasing the total authorized strength of the Russian Armed Forces to over 2.44 million personnel, which includes over 1.55 million active-duty military members. This follows previous increases in military personnel authorized earlier in the year.
